Cultural interpretations of states of malnutrition among children: A South Indian case study

In this chapter, I wish to consider how a set of children’s illnesses often associated with states of malnutrition are conceptualized by a South Indian population. My focus will be the meaning accorded to these illnesses and the manner in which this meaning influences health care practice and decision making. Highlighted will be rural mothers ideas about the classification, etiology, prevention, and appropriate treatment of seven children’s illnesses in South Kanara District, Karnataka State. Following the presentation of this data, I will briefly consider its applied significance and suggest that culturally responsive approaches to health education may be developed around emic illness categories. I will further argue that ayurvedic practitioners are a primary health care resource in rural South India capable of playing an important role in nutrition education. They are consulted about diet for health as well as during illness and convalescence, times of greatest nutrient need and the most dietary restrictions.